Meet the Peregrine Falcon

The peregrine falcon can snatch its prey at speeds of up to 200 mph. Known as the "fastest animal on earth," these powerful fliers have long-pointed wings and a narrow tail. Their prey, other birds, donít stand a chance against these skillful hunters.

Peregrine Falcons are Back!After being gone from Connecticut for over 40 years, peregrine falcons are nesting here again.

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This peregrine falcon chick hatched from a nest on the Travelers Tower in Hartford.

Peregrine falcons nest on mountaintops and cliffs overlooking open country and coastlines. They even nest on tall buildings and bridges in cities. Connecticut peregrine falcons have nested on a building ledge in Hartford and a bridge in Bridgeport.

{Adult Peregrine Falcon}

Adult peregrine falcons have gray backs, pale-colored chests and spots on their lower body. They also have black markings on their face that look like sideburns.

Poisonous DDTPeregrine falcons were once in danger of becoming extinct. They disappeared from much of their range because of the pesticide DDT. DDT was used in the United States before it was discovered that it was bad for the environment. DDT caused health problems for many animals.

Peregrines are fast fliers. How do other animals match up to these speedy falcons?